Just imagine a world where we get everything right the first time—no missteps, no regrets, no apologies necessary. A world where every decision is precise, every action flawless. But let’s be real: that’s not this world. We aren’t wired for perfection, and mistakes are inevitable. Yet, could we at least reduce how often we have to say, “I’m sorry”? Probably. And the key lies in something we often overlook, which is giving our best effort—mind, heart, and discipline fully engaged.

To live without constant regret requires courage. Courage to make decisions without hesitation, to trust that our best effort is enough. It demands focus—a commitment to the present task without letting distractions pull us sideways. And it takes discipline, the quiet yet powerful force that keeps us moving forward when every fiber of our being wants to swerve into the comfortable detours of old habits.

I know this struggle intimately. I tend to move from side to side, zigzagging between hesitation and overcorrection. I sabotage myself in these moments, not because I lack ability but because I lose sight of forward motion. It takes discipline to resist that sideways drift and keep pushing ahead. Having a partner who is naturally inclined toward steady progress can be highly beneficial.

If I lean toward indecision, I need someone who tilts toward action. If my feet falter, I need someone whose momentum is contagious. And perhaps they, too, need me—someone who thinks deeply, considers all angles, and ensures that forward motion isn’t just fast, but wise.

So maybe the goal isn’t to avoid mistakes entirely. Maybe it’s to engage with life so fully, so intentionally, that when we do err, our conscience is clear—we did our best. And with that, perhaps we’ll find ourselves saying “I’m sorry” less, not because we’re perfect, but because we lived with purpose.

“Whatever you do, do it from the heart, as something done for the Lord and not for people.” — Colossians 3:23 (CSB)